Socially Conscious Fashion in Fairhaven
Eleventh St GOODS
Copper Canoe Woman
Eleventh St GOODS
Erin Heydenreich of Betina Roza
MW Soapworks
Copper Canoe Woman
Valley Made Market
Styled Shoot
Artesanías El Alebrije
Beck’s Shoes
Soul Sisters Unique Boutique
Isola Handmade Originals
James Binnion Metal Arts
Fringe Boutique
If you need an extra dose of style inspiration this Valentine’s Day, our numerous local shops and boutiques should be your first port of call. With their help, we’ve put together three date night looks that are versatile enough to suit any occasion.
We Bee Kind
Q&A with Ashley Fullenwider, owner of local activewear brand Nuu-Muu
High Above
Three French Hens
Looking to spruce up your Winter Wardrobe? Check out this Q&A!
Check out these holiday deals from local retailers!
Cute but Crazy Socks
As we begin the transition from autumn to winter, the days might be dreary, but your wardrobe doesn’t have to be! With the help of local boutiques, we’ve picked out some pieces that will help you step into the new season with style.
The holiday season brings a lot of joy, from cuddly sweaters to festive decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones. Luckily you can find all of this merriment in one place: The Red Barn Holiday Market.
Lastly, shoppers can always expect affordable and adorable fashion, footwear, and accessories with everything in our collection still under $60.
From soaps and lotions to aromatherapy and makeup, Karmela Botanica offers a little bit of everything. In fact, when it comes to skin care products, owner Karma Maclachlan says it’s easier to ask what they don’t make. “We sell everything in our wheelhouse from luxury organic palm-free soaps to candles, incense, and toothpaste,” says Maclachlan. Maclachlan started making skin care products in 2002 under the business name Mother Goose Botanicals. In 2006,…
Madrona Wear is a sustainable clothing company born from a passion for sewing and a love for the natural world. It was founded in August of last year by Ruby Spring and Weston Persons, and the couple makes all of their clothing to order using upcycled and recycled materials.
It’s officially Fall! Here’s a look at what our staff here at Bellingham Alive loves about Fall Fashion.
GG Clay Co
Bella Rose Boutique
Tush & Bush Underwear
Summer Fashion Q&A
Orcas Island Leather Goods
FERN
Pack Northwest
Where relaxation meets results
Fashion Q&A with Jody Proctor at 12th Street Shoes
Attack Cat Bags
Martini Metal Craft
Whether you’re shopping for your sweetie this Valentine’s Day or just want to spread some love to family and friends, these gifts are sure to satisfy without hurting your wallet. Plus, they’re all from retailers in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Counties, so you can keep the love local.
PNW Minimalist
Bellingham’s newest art store, Art & Happiness, has everything you need to keep the creative juices flowing.
Eco-Friendly Middle Ground
Shop local this holiday season with the Holiday Shopping Guide from our November/December 2020 issue!
Penny Pinchers Estate Clearance
Pip Squeak’s online store offers sensory, organic, gender-neutral children’s clothing
Where would we be without our pets during quarantine? Now is the perfect time to give back and pamper your furry friends with nutritious meals, durable toys, and a trip to the spa at Pet Place Market Anacortes.
Looking to switch up your beauty routine, with these makeup tips from Kenna Balvanz.
Adored Boutique opens its doors in downtown Fairhaven
BRAY
Pac Nor Westy, an apparel and home goods store in downtown La Conner, is holding strong despite the setbacks of COVID-19. The store has an appealing, user-friendly online store, making it easy to shop from home as well as in person. Owner Richard Murphy works in IT consulting by day, but uses Pac Nor Westy as a way to…
Hair Q&A with Brooklyn Matthysse
Texture Clothing
Bradley Lockhart
Fashion Q&A with Sarah Dunbar, vintage buyer and owner of Pretty Penny
Cascadia Jewelry offers high-quality jewelry at accessible price points.
Backcountry Essentials sells gear and clothing from the best outdoor outfitters around.
Ideal is where you go to find functional, simple items from local and international sources.
Valley Made Market’s digital platform allows you to continue supporting local, with the same handmade products you know and love.
Bellingham native Julie Simon creates leather accessories, capturing the DIY spirit and beauty of the Pacific Northwest all in one.
Beauty salons may be closed, but you can still take care of your hair and get a fresh spring look. Check out this Q&A with Guerrero Hair Salon’s owner and stylist Nick St. Mary.
Going on vacation and need to pack light? Check out this Travel Fashion Q&A with Seattle-based blogger Autumn Sorelle.
Late afternoon sunlight streams through the windows of the Granary Building in Bellingham, illuminating Honey Salon’s new location. People in various stages of haircuts and blowouts laugh, lounge, and sip on complimentary tea and coffee. Honey Salon occupies the fourth and fifth floors of the building, looking out onto downtown Bellingham to the east and the San…
The Goat’s Coat aims to keep clothes out of landfills in a creative way, bringing style and sustainability together.
Be brave and give yourself permission to experiment. In the end, the only person in charge of telling you what–and what not–to do is yourself.
Spring is coming soon (hopefully). Here’s a look at this season’s trends with Seattle-based blogger Autumn Sorelle.
Skagit Valley Slabhaus turns salvaged wood into functional art.
La Conner’s Trumpeter Gallery showcases handmade jewelry from artists around the world. Learn about how they got started and the beautiful things to be found inside.
The Chipper Bird’s Whimsical Downtown Space is Sure to Leave You, Well, Chipper.
Em’s Herbals uses locally sourced, organic ingredients in their hand-made products. Owner Emily Pacheco discusses her business, favorite products, and plans for the future.
Bellingham Handmade’s new space is a haven for creative energy.
Good Earth Pottery celebrates 50 years of highlighting more than 40 artists at a time.
Local consignment shop The Lucky Dumpster offers an eclectic mix of handmade goods from more than 200 skilled artisans.
Designer jewelry gallery Whimsey brings unique, locally made creations to Bellingham’s Historic Fairhaven District.
Explore a variety of one-of-a-kind home and beauty items at handmade. la conner, and learn how it all started from owner Robyn Bradley.
After inquisitive clients kept asking hairstylist Janet Horton where she found her trendy threads, she realized she could combine her passion for hairstyling and fashion in one place. As such, Three Little Birds Salon & Boutique was born. The store features a full-service hair salon and…
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at Surroundings Home, Gift, and Garden—located at the Fairway Center shopping plaza in Lynden,
For more than 50 years, Tri Dee Arts has been a fixture in downtown Mount Vernon—in 2018, the newest owners unveiled two renovated sections.
Shelley Versteeg-Smit is the owner and head designer at Fishtrap Creek Interiors in Lynden, bringing more than 30 years of experience into her top-notch retail space.
Wild Fibers in downtown Mount Vernon has been inspiring fiber artists for nearly 15 years—a one-stop destination for everything fiber and fiber-related.
For those looking to revamp their look, check out Pretty Penny Clothing and Guerrero Hair Studio—owned by Sarah Dunbar and her husband, Nick St. Mary, respectively.
Bellingham’s newest coffee shop, Makeworth Market, blends business and aesthetics to create a bright, beautiful space for studying, working, or socializing.
In July 2018, brother and sister team—Jesse Sturgeon and Angie Skorick—opened Indulge Wine & Dessert Bar in historic downtown Anacortes.
Coco Mats ‘N More, founded in 2006 by Deepak Raghavan, uses sustainably sourced coconuts to create 100 percent natural floor mats.
Since 2001, Fairhaven has been home to The Silvery Moon jewelry shop—a store full of unique affordable pieces, made from all-natural stones.
Every Sunday through October, the Bellingham Handmade Market brings together a variety of local creators—its first season operating on a regular, weekly basis.
A new Betty Be Good location, which sits directly beside Woods Coffee on Front Street, joins the Birch Bay store in aiding the victims of human trafficking.
In December 2018, Just 4 Paws Pet Boutique opened in La Conner—A space dedicated to furry friends, where all kinds of pet lovers can stock up on pet food and supplies.
For some local grass-fed Angus beef, check out Addies Angus Ranch in Mount Vernon—a small, family business run by Nikki Lewis-LeSourd.
Owner Laura Norris purchased the Griffin Bay Bookstore, a staple in downtown Friday Harbor since 1979, as a way to preserve literary culture on the island.
Stop by this seaside shop, in Birch Bay, for some homemade candy, ice cream, snow cones, fresh pizza, sandwiches, or any of its other tasty summer treats.
For more than 24 years, Lee Brooks has been showcasing art from Native artists at his gallery, Arctic Raven Gallery, in downtown Friday Harbor.
Since they began selling ice cream in 1982 Edaleen Dairy has opened six locations, with its newest location having opened in Fairhaven on February 18, 2019.
What began as a business selling flower bouquets out of a vintage trailer, became a barn storefront full of goodies for outdoor and indoor decorating.
This Lynden family-owned and operated shop, which has been around since 1947, combines the pleasures of delicious coffee with a well curated bookstore.
Prepare for your next boating adventure at the Waggoner Guide Bookstore, where they offer expert advice, seminars and an array of nautical books.
Cherished local orchard of Bellewood Farms, formerly known as Bellewood Acres, is newly-owned by the Abel family, who live, work and play on the property.
SeaBear Wild Salmon sells their Pacific Northwest caught smoked salmon in Anacortes. Tom Savidge is the founder, and Mike Mondello is the president and CEO.
Allison Potts and Karen Blanquart are the owners of the Bellingham boutique Brazen Shop + Studio. The shop features local art, jewelry, and so much more!
Brady Ryan makes a variety of salt products from the Salish Sea waters. San Juan Island Sea Salt sells their salt products at local farmers markets.
Ashley HomeStore has a new home at the Bellis Fair Mall in Bellingham. Chris Busby and April Barnes are part of a team that helps the store run smoothly.
Greenhouse, a home furnishings store in Bellingham, is under new ownership. BreAnne Green bought the store last year and has kept a strong community focus.
Mark Carrier is the owner of The Wood Merchant in downtown La Conner. At this gallery, you can find beautiful creations by talented woodworking artists.
Jim Sullivan and Sandy Petersen run Growlers Keep in Bellingham, where you can fill a growler with any beer, cider, or other beverage they have available.
Rawganique is a clothing store and cafe in Blaine run by Quo Yong Fu and Qeanu Wallner. The company offers raw and organic items for sustainable living.
Roberta and Gregg Westover own the Olive Shoppe and Ginger Grater. at their place in La Conner, you can taste a variety of olives, shop for kitchen necessities, and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Alchemika Salon, with owner and stylist Somer-Barnes, is an eco-conscious salon for responsible hair care. Green Circle provides compostable packaging.
The New Year is a time to refresh! Fashion blogger Autumn Sorelle shares her tips on how to clear away the clutter and re-organize your closet.
Zac Palmer is a personal trainer, and VP of Fitness Gear and Training. The store sells residential fitness equipment, has a gym and a 30-Minute Fit program.
Pandora Grover moved her women’s clothing store, Seasons, to Fairhaven earlier this year. You can find Northwest fashion for every season there year-round.
Styled by Lisa Karlberg and photographed by Katheryn Moran, we bring you Feathers & Fur (faux fur!) paired with beautiful clothes from local shops for our annual fashion shoot!
Since Costco’s move, the Cordata Center is now home to Sierra Trading Post, HomeGoods, and Hobby Lobby. All in one place to make your shopping trip easier.
Lynden native Laura Bouma owns the women’s clothing boutique Cheeks. You can find the shop on Front Street in downtown Lynden.
From stickers to mugs to handmade jewelry to screen-printed clothes, it’s all available at elSage Designs in downtown Mount Vernon.
When the Leightons took over Sandpebble on Friday Harbor, they changed the name to Pebble and began to slowly and naturally modernize the shop.
Julie Coull is the owner of Hamann’s Gallery and Gift in Barkley Village. You can find custom framing, local art, Scandinavian home goods, and so much more!
In Burlington, Tana and Eric Skaugrud are founders of Skagit’s Own Fish Market. They offer fresh, locally caught seafood, seasonings, and a seafood lunch.
Urban Collective is a a home decor boutique and staging service created by Solveig Johnson, a Bellingham realtor at The Muljat Group.
Hayley and Jarod Faws have opened a new jewelry store called APSE. A percentage of their profits goes to ending sexual exploitation.
Material Wit on Orcas Island is run by Jessie Morrow. Her shop showcases four jewelry collections, clothes, household items, and art.
Flip and Little Bugs, owned by Elyse Brown, are two children and maternity consignment stores in Bellingham where moms can buy second hand clothes and toys.
Babygreens is a new indoor plant shop located in Downtown Bellingham. Owner Nick Meza is a WWU grad and opened the shop earlier this spring.
A new gift shop opened in Anacortes. The Johnson Manor is a colorful, unique shop offering fun gifts, furniture, beauty products and more!
Barb’s Pies and Pastries is a family-run bakery in Ferndale that brings so much to their community. Cakes, doughnuts, and cookies are all on the menu!
BIJA is changing the chocolate industry. BIJA works with women’s co-operatives to build empowered communities and with cocoa farmers to become organic.
Superfeet is emerging as a leader in footbed technology.
Bare Boutique in Mount Vernon provides high-quality skincare products and services in a relaxing and welcoming environment.
Evolve Chocolate has found a new home at Village Books, expanding to include a café and bar, showcasing what Bellingham has to offer.
THE SHOP Whether your home’s style is farmhouse, nautical or Paris chic, Mount Vernon’s Re-Feather Your Nest has the perfect finishing touches for any well-designed room. In addition to decor accessories and wall hangings, it has one-of-a-kind, reclaimed…
Jenny Reich started experimenting with stained glass in the 1970s in Atlanta as a creative outlet. Today, you can find her with her dogs Lola and Salem in northern Whatcom County amid her colorful glass creations of all kinds. Just off Interstate 5 in the small town of Custer, she opened Whimsy Art Glass Studio seven years ago, where she now has her studio, a retail shop, and teaches classes. Her pieces in…
Meraki Boutique in Victoria, B.C. offers locally crafted goods and high-quality fashions in the Uptown Shopping Centre.
THE SHOP Statement Apparel opened May 1, 2015, with two goals: create a women’s clothing store complementing all ages and donate to charity. The Barkley Village shop has done just that. Owner Deirdre (DeeDee) Bell took over the shop when Susan Sandell retired, creating a new name and widening the target market. “From 20 years old to 90, we really have something for everyone,” Bell said. “And that makes me feel…
A kayak and ski store located in a retail/industrial area in North Vancouver, B.C., Deep Cove Outdoors is something of a misnomer. Its namesake bay is five miles away, where the store has a waterfront center and rental operation. But within the city confines, Deep Cove has built a reputation for not only outdoor gear, but as a hub for community events and…
Jennifer Mann sold glue for 35 years. The Californian-born Mann worked for a Connecticut-based company that made adhesives and coatings that cured in a certain spectrum of light, ideal for everything from windshield-crack bonding to dental coatings. Mann moved to Anacortes 14 years ago, but still spent 70 percent of her time traveling for work. During her last five years at the glue company, Mann’s late mother begged her daughter to…
Lil’ Tugs Children’s Boutique 713 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.2350 | liltugskids.com THE SHOP Since its opening in July 2016, Lil’ Tugs Children’s Boutique has become a community favorite. The darling shop carries toys and clothing for newborns through eight years old. Inspired by the Anacortes tugboat town culture, the store features a child-sized tugboat perfect for keeping kids busy while grownups browse the shop’s fun inventory. THE ATMOSPHERE A sidewalk chalkboard sign beckons customers into Lil’ Tugs, but the dizzying…
Lather & Salt Tucked — almost squeezed — neatly between Antique Warehouse and Roger’s River View Bistro on Snohomish’s main drag is a delicious bath and…
Twin Sisters Creamery The Twin Sisters Creamery and cheese shop is big, bright, and airy, not exactly what you’d expect of a store of its kind, but certainly what you want. Lindsay and Jeff…
Since 1985, Bothell Furniture has been a mainstay in downtown Bothell, and a recent move to a larger building just four blocks away has allowed it to spread its wings. The store’s salespeople have distinguished themselves by their knowledge and expertise. They buy carefully selected individual pieces of furniture rather than container loads of cheap…
Sempre Italiano Laura and Raffaele Chiusano like to describe events in their lives as “destino!” The two have a zest for life and…
Seifert and Jones Wine Merchants 19 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.393.3271 | sjwinemerchants.com THE SHOP Seifert and Jones Wine Merchants is located in a charming downtown building that welcomes guests with tall ceilings, large windows, graphic art, and plenty of wine. Ted Seifert and Diane Jones opened the store in 2013 with a mission to promote…
Glassblowing Art When molten glass cools too quickly it explodes. At the Firehouse Glass Gallery in Langley there’s a barrel of discarded blowpipes with leftover nubs of molten glass. A periodic pop pop calls from the barrel, like a gun going off in the glass gallery. To prevent glass creations from exploding, temperature control is…
Keeping it classic When Garys’ Men’s and Women’s Wear closed in the winter of 2016, the Bellingham community mourned. Gary Lupo and his wife Barbara had run the well-loved store since 1978 (preceded by another owner named Gary, hence “Garys’”). Customers enjoyed memorable service and a large selection of classic clothing and shoes for men and women. Thankfully, Chris Hayward stumbled across Garys’ during their final sale while visiting family in Bellingham. Hayward had owned a store with her…
Skagit Running Company 724 South 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.982.2934 facebook.com/Skagit-Running-Company THE SHOP On a corner at the edge of downtown Mount Vernon sits Skagit Running Company. Operating since 2001, the store has become a go-to in the lives of numerous runners in Skagit County for good reason: They care…
Arista Wine Cellars This time of year, the crisp air is perfumed with the crackling of alder hearth fires and spiced with notes of cinnamon and pumpkin. The promise of unhurried dinners as we gorge ourselves with extra helpings and good conversation…
Eclipse Bookstore THE SHOP Eclipse Bookstore sits on the edge of Fairhaven, a mere block uphill on 11th Street from Village Books….
A Lot of Flowers It is not too bold to say that A Lot of Flowers has become a staple of the Fairhaven community. Since 1985, the store has had a handful of owners and has occupied three different locations — all within old Fairhaven. And, when it first opened, the name…
After growing up in their mother’s retail store in Chelan, Jenna and brother James Wadkins opened Outbound, an apparel store in Fairhaven, about a year and a half ago. The outdoor apparel store differentiates itself from the big names in recreational clothing with its selection of small, but innovative brands. In addition to seeking out unique merchandise,…
Anacortes Oil & Vinegar Bar THE SHOP Anacortes Oil & Vinegar Bar is a haven for olive oil and vinegar connoisseurs. It specializes in Ultra Premium extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), the cream of the crop in olive oil standards. Ultra Premium certification requires vigorous testing of the…
Orcas Island Pottery THE SHOP Opened in 1945, Orcas Island Pottery lays claim to being the oldest pottery shop in the Pacific Northwest. It’s been owned by two families, has had four generations throw pottery in its studio, and has undergone two remodels — one in 1969 to expand the studio space and again in…
“Casual, comfortable, and luxurious” are the three pillars of Joie’s approach to clothing. The designs are inspired by the relaxed Southern California lifestyle and are infused with the sort of sophistication you’d expect to find on the streets of Paris. The name Joie translates to “rejoicing” in French — an appropriate name for a fashion…
Backcountry Essentials Tucked into one of historic downtown Bellingham’s charming buildings is Backcountry Essentials outdoors store. Dozens of recreation backpacks find homes on the exposed brick walls, along with rows of skis and boots. From the wood rafters hang hammocks and tents. Even the creaky staircase, which leads customers to the used…
Bunnies By The Bay THE SHOP At the end of La Conner’s 1st Street, a narrow storefront beckons family members, and expectant mothers in search of baby toys meant to be cherished. Inside Bunnies By The Bay,…
A Unique Hatting Experience Little warms hearts like a family business, and nothing warms heads like a good hat. Goorin Bros. is a fourth-generation family hat shop with more than 30 locations nationwide, including downtown Seattle and Vancouver B.C. Goorin Bros. founder, Cassel Goorin,…
Inexpensive Costume Options at Buffalo Exchange, Wise Buys Finding a clever Halloween costume can be a challenge, especially in a hip, creative community like Bellingham. More than just a day to indulge in your sweet tooth, Halloween has become an…
Pies & Such It’s not every day you walk into a shop and find clothing, jewelry, and art alongside decadent desserts. But Pies & Such has done just that in La Conner, and co-owners Jeneé Geoghegan and Mo Jensen couldn’t be happier. Together they keep fresh pies and cakes in the display case…
3 Sisters Farm and Market For some of us, knowing where our food comes from is a family tradition. For others, it’s a fairly recent revelation. Either…
ModSock Socks of all shapes and sizes adorn the surfaces of ModSock, including more than 50 cat socks alone. When asked what it’s like to run a successful business selling niche items, owner Urania Shaklee said socks aren’t a niche, they’re a need. ModSock thrives selling solely socks because…
2020 Solutions THE SHOP Any preconceived notion you have for how a marijuana retailer should look would probably be dashed when you enter…
Pike Street Press We all love the convenience and connection modern technology affords us, but do you ever yearn for the old-school ethos of doing things slowly and with great intention? Not many trades call for the high-level of skill and precision as much as letterpress does, and Pike Street Press is doing it…
Forte Chocolates Pushing away from corporate chains mechanically mass-producing their chocolate, Forte Chocolates takes a step back, continuing to handcraft their world-renowned sweets. Turn the corner and walk closer. The smell of hot chocolate hits you first, drawing you inside. Go ahead — sample Forte’s decadent hot chocolate mix. Make sure you don’t miss other samples placed around the store. Visit Forte, and you get to…
Bow Wow & Woofs THE SHOP Bow Wow & Woofs is not your ordinary pet store. Instead of the typical run-of-the mill kibble and dog biscuits, you’ll find freezers stocked with raw dog food and…
Bayview Farm & Garden Bayview Farm & Garden, in the seaside village of Langley on Whidbey Island, promoted green gardening before the word “green” meant anything more than a color. Ambitious and industrious owner Maureen Murphy, constantly strives to improve the business while sticking to her philosophy that an industry responsible…
Shake & Shine Canine Wash and Deli Shake & Shine Canine Wash and Deli is as close to a day spa as your four-legged-friend will experience. Plus, the myriad bath and grooming options, from self-service washes to full-service grooming, makes it easy for pet owners to keep their pooches clean. The Pacific Northwest climate can make keeping pups clean throughout the year a challenge. With rain comes mud and…
Pearl Buttons Vintage Style THE SHOP Pearl Buttons Vintage Style in Anacortes sells old Hollywood glamour. The ultra-feminine clothing store is decorated with feathers, drop…
No Two Blues Alike When the Kittitas Indians shared their discovery of blue agate, it was so stunningly beautiful only tribal chiefs were allowed to wear the vibrant mineral….
Boxes & Bears You might feel like you’re just passing time when playing a game or working on a puzzle, but there are other cognitive functions at work. In many board games, players work on a variety of skills…
Mystical Mermaid THE SHOP The Mystical Mermaid gift shop in Friday Harbor has been around for more than 25 years, passing through the management…
Cotton, Cotton, Cotton When Gail and Randy Schnee came to the San Juan Islands for a kayaking trip, they weren’t expecting to stay for good. Originally from Orlando, Fla. and tired of hurricanes and bustling crowds, the couple found Washington’s mild climate and Friday Harbor’s small community ideal. They fell in love with Friday Harbor and immediately began looking at small businesses they could run successfully without any experience. In Florida, Gail had worked at Universal Studios…
Pelindaba Lavender Farm THE SHOP Many locals are familiar with the purple fields of Pelindaba Lavender Farm on San Juan Island, but don’t know about its offshoot retail stores. They sell the same wonderful lavender products as their on-site gift store, the Gatehouse Farm Store. Each outlet carries the same high-quality, on-site-grown, harvested, and handcrafted goods, but each store has its own…
Moorea Seal Have you ever walked into a store and thought it must have been designed with you in mind? For me, that store is Moorea Seal, a hidden gem in the heart of Seattle’s Belltown district. Moorea Seal…
Apricot Lane Boutique Apricot Lane Boutiques have made their way up to our corner of Washington. The Bellis Fair store opened on Nov. 17 as the first Apricot Lane in the state,…
THE SHOP When Katherine Khile bought the Scott Milo Gallery in 1994, it served the community as a framing shop. They still offer…
Sugarfina is a luxe candy store that caters to adults with a taste for the finer things in life. It recently launched a boutique inside Nordstrom’s Seattle flagship store. Sugarfina’s candy is packaged in beautiful, brightly colored boxes and ribbons, which makes for a tasty treat that’s easy on the eyes. Unlike other candy retailers, Sugarfina focuses on high quality ingredients. With flavors like Pale Ale Pints and Single Malt Scotch Cordials and…
Arshia Fathali sat at his desk with Oliver, his 11-year-old canine friend, on his lap. Hand-woven rugs decorate the walls, cover the floors, and even the surface of his desk. It is no wonder that Fathali calls his space a gallery. The Fairhaven Rug Gallery is located at 901 Harris Ave. and was opened by Fathali in 2004. Today, he estimates that he has about 5,000 rugs in the warehouselike gallery. Originally from Iran, Fathali moved to Vancouver, B.C. when…
THE SHOP As with many stores in the Bellingham area, Scandi Butik and Gifts offers many products created by independent and small businesses. A warmly lit corner littered with assorted beachthemed gifts eases the bone-deep Bellingham chill outside, while just a few steps away is a shrine dedicated…
“Born and raced in Seattle” is the motto prominently announced on a wall in Oiselle’s flagship store in Seattle’s University Village. Founder and CEO Sally Bergesen launched Oiselle (pronounced wa-zell) in 2007. The flagship store opened in July 2015 just two miles away from its headquarters. This is a homegrown, local company fittingly named after the…
Located upstairs from Envy, one of the best hair salons in Mt. Vernon, you know there’s going to be something special in store for you at Pretty Simple. The adorably dressed mannequin greets you at the door and leads you upstairs as you anticipate the treasures to behold. I challenge anyone to leave empty-handed. My first sensory experience as I walked in…
For the past few months, the space across from Payless ShoeSource and Earthbound Trading Company has been cordoned off, blocked by signs emblazoned with, perhaps slightly vague, promises. “Ulta Beauty, coming Winter 2016.” Until now, beauty aficionados have had to travel south to Marysville for their Ulta collection fix. For a while, it seemed like there would be no end to the mass makeup migration. Even with the anticipated Winter opening,…
THE SHOP Atomic Kitten stands out on Commercial Street, its painted blue bricks contrasting sharply against the surrounding dull red buildings. Guarded by a cartoon kitten, the brightly lit showroom beckons from behind the windows. The store, which opened in July, is home to a…
Your holiday shopping just got a little easier, thanks to our neighbors to the north. Tsawwassen Mills Outlet Mall opened in October, and brings to our area many premium stores…
After making a splash in the Whatcom County fashion community, Betty Be Good has expanded into Bellingham proper. If you’re in the market for a cute plaid flannel dress, a new…
The Shop Edmonds Bookshop is the quintessential booklover’s haven. Located in the heart of the picturesque North End waterfront…
This time of year the crisp air is perfumed with the crackling of alder hearth fires and spiced with notes of cinnamon and pumpkin. The promise of unhurried dinners as we gorge ourselves with extra helpings and good…
THE SHOP This charming space in Historic Fairhaven is packed with whismical vintage goods. Located right on Harris Avenue, the historic setting provides a perfect backdrop to the antique furniture, fun artwork, and bright fabrics. Something Found owners Jamie Schwindt and Helene Fellows keep the store well-organized and pleasing to the eye. Although there are lots of knick-knacks and collectibles, they are charmingly displayed. Jazzy music plays to top off the…
Nearly nine months after the Fairhaven Pharmacy closed its doors in 2015, partners Cameron Vail and Scott Ward have breathed new life into…
The Shop Most North Ender’s know the charm of strolling along Snohomish’s First Avenue, and if you haven’t been, you simply must take a few hours to experience the delight. Darling seems to be the rule in Snohomish, and Joyworks fits right in. With seven decked-out windows, the shop runs three…
“Born and raced in Seattle” is the motto prominently announced on a wall in Oiselle’s flagship store in Seattle’s University Village. Founder and CEO Sally Bergesen launched Oiselle (pronounced wa-zell) in 2007. The flagship store opened in…
Gardens hold a special spot in the hearts of many. Tending the young shoots of flowers, vegetables, and other plants, watching them…
THE SHOP My Garden Nursery offers patrons so much more than plants. From events like the Summer Solstice Soirée and their holiday Ugly Sweater Party, the nursery is about more than just planting and sowing. Customers also get excellent plant advice straight from owners…
Z Gallerie opened its doors to its 63rd location in Bellevue Square on April 9. The furniture gallery aims to bring fashion forward decor to customers at an…
Situated in the heart of historic downtown Mount Vernon, Ryann Michele & Co. is the chicest newbie in the Pacific Northwest. A home decor and clothing boutique run by a mother-daughter duo, Ryann and Michele provide their customers with a stylish variety of clothing, accessories, skin care, and home decor. Imagine visiting a close, well-styled friend: welcoming, warm, and a visual treat, that’s what it’s like in Ryann Michele & Co. These stylish…
The Shop Does a peaceful yet adventurous day on the river or lake this summer sound appealing to you? Want to try something new with the family? Or, do you live to cast a fly rod? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, try visiting Pacific Fly Fishers located in the ever-growing city of Mill Creek, with easy access to both…
At home in the chic, down-to-earth seaside village of Edmonds is the Travel Center for Rick Steves’ Europe. Approach the building from 4th Avenue, just off Main Street, and you’ll get a sneak peek of the exciting travel possibilities to come with its classic red brick exterior and sculptural stonework. Enter under the watchful gaze of gargoyles. Five steps beyond the cheerful “Open” flag clapping in the breeze and you’re inside a onestop resource…
THE SHOP Tucked in the Lettered Streets, within the walls of a blue garage lies Alleycat Bike Shop. This neighborhood treasure is Bellingham’s onestop repair shop to restore and renew your bike. Lined with handlebars, accessories, helmets, tires, and other parts, this bicycle workshop has been repairing rides since 2013. Stepping inside Alleycat is a first-hand look at the mechanics of bike repair and restoration, the passion of shop owner Duke Pakdee. THE ATMOSPHERE A raw look into a mechanic’s…
In London, the word “bird” can also mean “gal.” That is what inspired shop owner Adrienne Beard’s new women’s clothing store, The Chipper Bird. “I wanted to incorporate the words bird, joyful, and happy into the…
Watch as a slender cigarette boat cuts a brilliant path across the Atlantic leaving a trail of frothy sea foam in its wake. At the bow, a smartly dressed, sunglasses-clad couple laughs and cavorts, while a man in a navy blue blazer steers Baker’s Boat. The scene is awash in the turquoise haze of vintage film. This is the sun-kissed video loop on the splash page of Ted Baker’s website for…
Sandra Chhuon, owner of The Vintage Company No. 7, is sure spoken and wise beyond her 29 years, a vision of passion-driven entrepreneurship with bright red shoes and paint on her skirt….
THE SHOP “Rad” and “cozy” are two words Olivia Hanson-Hostetter uses to describe her clothing business Sassy Babes Boutique. “I’d also use the words ‘innovative’ and ‘unique.’” The shop, located in a Chevy 3500 bus, opened in December 2013. Complete…
THE SHOP Since 1985, Bothell Furniture has been a mainstay in downtown Bothell. Its salespeople have distinguished themselves by their knowledge and expertise. They…
I remember shopping at Digs when it was located on Holly St. in downtown Bellingham. The showroom’s furniture, housewares, decor, and gifts always made me feel a little weak in the knees, as if I might swoon onto a Gus* bed upholstered in tweed and dressed in a DwellStudio duvet. Modern design does that to me. So it pained me when I heard that…
Just off of Snohomish’s bustling First Avenue is a picturesque storefront painted in serene tones of blue and green. Above the door, a sign announces in cheerful cursive and delicate capital letters: Maple + Moss Boutique. Inside, the fashions that owner Kortney Rasmussen carefully curates evoke the quaint exterior with their warm colors, soft draping, and inviting fabrics. But the on-trend styles are youthful and pretty, giving the clothes a freshness that…
Whether you are hunting for
a statement piece, a winter coat, a perfectly fitting
sweater, soft comfy t-shirts, jeans, intimates, or
accessories, Heroine has a wide selection of items
for women of all ages.
The bags are made from high-quality leather and have a very nice hand-made look about them without looking overly done or too rough hewn. They strike a balance.
THE SHOP Nestled in the tiny town of Stanwood is Snow Goose Books & Frame a 30-year-old shop, where owners and staff members offer knowledgeable and friendly service. They know their neighbors, as well as their neighbors’ interests in literature and taste in art for framing. “We really get to know our customers,” said Kristine Kaufman, co-owner of Snow Goose Books and Frames. “We have a personal way of relating with customers, which comes naturally through the…
Tucked — almost squeezed — neatly between Everything Tea and Roger’s Riverview Bistro on Snohomish’s main downtown First Street drag is a delicious bath and body shop.
The selection of handbags and purses is equally impressive, with a similar emphasis on quality, style, and practicality.
Tucked beneath the South Bay Suites in historic Fairhaven is Bellingham’s newest home decor and gift shop. 1 Paperboat welcomes guests with open doors to Bellingham Bay, creating a new by-the-sea shopping experience. Within its walls, shoppers can find an array of home goods, jewelry, gifts, and clothing. Storeowners Royal and Diane Reinsch, and their dog Chief, are inspired by the closeness to the bay, and decided on a nautical theme for the store. When thinking of a…
A tray with a glass sake set and sushi rests on a long wooden table. It seems a bit out of place amid…
Anyone who lives in Bellingham knows the open, inviting, independent bookstore Village Books and its next-door neighbor, the gift shop Paper Dreams. Village Books is an anchor in the community, functioning as more than just a retail space. It is a gathering place that embodies what Bellingham is about: partnerships,…
A little more than five years ago, successful entrepreneur and business owner Corey Anderson asked himself, “What do I want to do?” With a few successful businesses holding their own, Corey decided to do something that brought him back…
THE SHOP Step into the welcoming interior of Bon Séjour Home in Bothell’s Country Village, and you will feel right at home. Stylish comfort suffuses the shop, from the color of the walls, a refreshing robin’s egg blue, to the artful arrangement of decorative tables and shelves, which sport a cheerful assortment of home décor and gifts. Bon Séjour Home fits cozily among the village’s shops, located in a quaintly shingled building beside a charming courtyard that might just as well have a rooster strutting across…
THE SHOP A playground filled with stately furniture for any preference, Bramble Home Store offers endless possibilities of elegant, handcrafted pieces to transform a home into a refined yet cozy haven. With three large stores scattered throughout Snohomish…
What if you could combine giving back and empowering women with shopping for clothes and accessories? Here in the Northwest, you can. Purpose Boutique in Kirkland (and Bremerton) has a powerful mission to outfit local women in beautiful, accessible clothing while donating 10% of net proceeds to fight human trafficking. They also partner with socially-conscious companies that empower and employ women. CEO Christie Johnson is living her passion. She is able…
The first words that come to mind when walking into Edmonds’ c’est la Vie (pronounced Say La Vee) are colorful, eclectic, and fun. The entry walkway and surrounding walls are artistically lined with quotes that range from the funny to the heartfelt, setting the perfect mood for what you’ll find in the store. “There’s always something unexpected when you come in here,” c’est la Vie’s owner Colleen Bowman said. It’s no wonder, as Bowman traverses…
What I first notice when stepping into Betty Lou’s Downtown Emporium, other than the flowing skirts and cozy sweaters, is a feeling of being transported to somewhere calm, mature and a little bit exotic. To my left are displays full of dresses, skirts, sweaters and tops in warm earth tones with occasional bright colors.
Beauty & Function Picture a vibrant new store that takes Bellingham’s collective passion for reusing and repurposing in a new, untapped direction. What a wonderfully cluttered used bookstore is to boxes of lonely books in your attic, Ragfinery is to those bags of clothes, jars of buttons, and McCall’s bell-bottom patterns you stumble over while trying to reach those boxes with the books…only…
The most important thing you need to know about experiencing tea according to Narumol, who also goes by Ann, is not to rush and just enjoy. You’ll want to take your time, as flavors from around the world greet every eager taste bud from Baicha’s mainly organic tea selection.
THE SHOP The picturesque town of Edmonds, with its quaint stores and sidewalk cafes, recently welcomed the chic fashion boutique Rogue to its charming Main Street on March 8th. Visitors can find the shop in an appealingly old-fashioned white house built by the local blacksmith in the 1890s. Inside, however, the modern styles offered by owner Kimberly Koenig provide a spirited…
Gregg’s Cycle is something of a Seattle institution — its flagship Greenlake location has operated since 1932. Gregg’s has expanded to three locations, but the Lynnwood location (lucky us) opened its doors in 2007. Gregg’s is known for having an expert, involved staff who will answer questions and match you with the best bike or cycling products,…
THE SHOP Find Your Fashion Again is the new kid on the block. Located in the Grocery Outlet Center in Ferndale, Wash., this 6-month old consignment shop offers a new twist on an old shopping favorite. Shoppers can bring in their used clothes and receive credits toward…
All of the clothing in Jaleh Boutique is designed and manufactured locally in the Puget Sound. Designer and Jaleh boutique owner Jordanah Monjazeb’s pieces are effortless and versatile, and the price tags are just as attractive as the clothing. Well-spoken and engaging, designer Monjazeb is clear about her vision and describes the line as “Feminine, sophisticated and refined.” Jaleh (pronounced zsa-leh) was intended to provide everyday essentials…
Bill and Teri Hewett, owners of the Color Pot, seem to be quite the dynamic duo. Bill oversees the office, does estimates, works in the warehouse, installs, cleans…
THE SHOP Located on West Holly Street and shaded by the trees and nearby shops, Naked Clothing is home to a new type of clothing—clothing with a conscience. The shop is new to the downtown Bellingham area, and is located in the old…
Just utter the name “Zara” and you will have the attention of every fashionista in the Pacific Northwest. The Spain-based fast-fashion paradise opened its 49th U.S. store in Seattle this February and the…
The Good Time Girls of the Bureau of Historical Investigation are a blast from the past. Offering guided walking tours around Bellingham dressed in Victorian costumes, these girls share their…
THE SHOP The corner of 5th and Main is an iconic location in Edmonds — it plays a front and center role in the Downtown shopping area. Since the 1960s, 422 Main Street has been a children’s store with an emphasis on clothing. The new owner, Kristina Freeburg, aims to expand the store into maternity clothing while fine-tuning the children’s focus to the first two years. THE ATMOSPHERE Belly & Co. is…
Pacific Northwest winters can’t keep locals away from the outdoors. When January rounds the corner and we find we’ve been nudged into the New Year, our running shoes and layers of athletic gear are pulled out from the closet and dusted off. Dreams to tighten, tone and build the muscles that have been vacationing since the holidays are once again within…
THE SHOP Within the Bay Street Public Market is J & J Jewelry, a hidden gem. The owner is owner Jaime Pyshny, long-time jewelry expert. J & J is named after Jaime and her daughter Jayda. “I love all types of jewelry. I’m trying to offer a wide range of some things that are less expensive and affordable and your higher end pieces and bridal stuff.” The shop opened early September at 301…
It was ironic to dress up for the opening of an activewear store. After all, activewear is my typical daily work uniform. Yoga or running pants? Check. Comfortable lightweight…
Discerning denizens of Bellingham have a lovely vintage-inspired store on Bay Street in downtown Bellingham. A Lovely Day is a whimsical women’s clothing store that distinguishes itself well from other retailers while offering…
Ann Taylor concept store opens in University Village.
Gretchens is full of everything for cooking and baking. Whether a veteran in the kitchen or simply playin’ around, you’ll find what you need inside this one-of-a-kind store.
The Shop Dakota Arts has been in downtown Bellingham for 20 years. With a new location, a new on-site art gallery — and much more space overall — art enthusiasts can be sure to find what they are looking for. Alan Weydert, the manager at Dakota Arts said, “I looked at over 25 spaces before finding this location. Some did not work because…
With creativity — and the determination to cultivate her passion — Aerin Adrian recently opened eARThbenders and Artisans, a new ceramic and pottery studio in downtown Bellingham. “I started making pottery 17 years ago at the Community College of Yakima,” Adrian said. From there she went on to major at Western…
The Shop On the corner of 5th Ave. and Main St., in downtown Edmonds, stands Sound Styles, a fashion institution in Edmonds. Originally, the boutique was bought by two families with the intention of having the daughters from those two families run it. However, one family quickly discovered that the retail business was not for them, giving mother Dolores Bjorback and her daughter Jenny Murphy co-ownership only three years after the…
Pipe & Row’s tagline is “Not your average staple” and that certainly fits. Owner Kayla Boehme said, “We want to push someone to the edge of their comfort zone, but not over it.” The boutique, which opened June 17 in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood, aims to make high fashion accessible to everyone. The store carries brands like Miista. Ampersand as Apostrophe, Wren and Sam & Lavi….
This year for our style feature, we were inspired by the ornate ironwork, rich woodwork and majestic atmosphere of Lairmont Manor. Taking a cue from the Lairmont’s vintage charm, we gathered some favorite…
THE SHOP Nestled next to Bayou on the Bay, on the corner of Holly and Prospect in downtown Bellingham lays a hidden jewel called Red Barn Jewelry. Owner Stacia Davis makes bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings using only recycled metals and her signature flat stone rocks. “I have been making jewelry for as long as I can remember, but professionally for three years. I used to make my jewelry in a red barn and that is where the name…
J. Jill’s new retail location in Bellevue has elevated the shopping experience to be a modern day escape for those who seek simplicity. The completely redesigned space opened late April under the brand’s…
Betty Be Good — a contemporary fashion boutique in Birch Bay Square — offers attractively chic clothing, shoes and accessories at affordable prices. “The printed leggings are our most popular selling item, they sell for $14.50,” said owner Suzanne Smith….
THE SHOP Located on Guide Meridian and full of equipment that bikers can only dream about, BikeSport offers a variety of bikes, unicycles, and helmets, as well as clothing. This…
It could be the open environment, the gorgeous furniture, or the large oil paintings hanging on exposed brick walls — whatever it is, owner and showroom manager Sharon Kingston has finally found her place in Bellingham at Modern Classics. Originally a virtual company started by her husband Curt, Modern Classics is now, as of April 4th, a store in the Chicago Fine Arts Building on…
Vintage chic for the home, trendy accessories for you THE SHOP. The theme, old to new, flows throughout Grandiflora. Named after the popular magnolia gardens that existed in Lynden’s past, Grandiflora opened…
Bellevue’s premiere shopping destination is worth the drive Having seen a list of the shops at The Bravern– Neiman Marcus, Jimmy Choo, Salvatore Ferragamo, Hermes – I was prepared to be thoroughly intimidated on my first…
It’s all for charity at the annual Goodwill Glitter Sale. A few years ago my sister-in-law invited me to the Goodwill Glitter Sale in Seattle. There were a few things I needed to know before committing, however. Namely, there would be no public fitting rooms and would I be comfortable shopping with a bunch of strangers in my undergarments? I had been in more bizarre situations than this in my…